By Steve Oko

UMUAHIA — The Abia State Government is advancing plans to partner with Hilton International to establish a five-star hotel in Umuahia as part of efforts to expand hospitality infrastructure and support economic development in the state.

The proposed facility, expected to operate under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand, is aimed at strengthening the hospitality sector and catering to growing business, government and visitor traffic into the state.

Governor Alex Otti disclosed this on Thursday while receiving a delegation from Hilton International that visited Umuahia to inspect the proposed project site.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, the governor said the partnership aligns with the administration’s efforts to attract investment and improve infrastructure across the state.

He said Hilton was selected after an evaluation process, citing the company’s experience in the hospitality industry and international presence.

“Excellence remains the hallmark of this administration. We carefully considered several options, but Hilton’s globally recognised reputation for hospitality and service made it the preferred choice,” Otti said.

The governor noted that increasing business and official visits to the state have contributed to demand for additional hospitality facilities.

He also said Abia is preparing to host major events, including the forthcoming Africando programme, which is expected to attract thousands of participants.

According to him, ongoing projects such as the proposed Abia Airport, seaport initiative and industrial activities in Aba underscore the need for expanded hospitality infrastructure.

Speaking during the visit, Hilton International’s Executive Director for Development, Europe, Middle East and Africa, Ms. Nida Sozugecer, expressed optimism about the proposed project.

She said Nigeria remains an important market for Hilton and noted that the company has operated in the country for more than 40 years.

According to her, Hilton and the Abia State Government have signed a Letter of Understanding and are working towards concluding agreements for the establishment of DoubleTree by Hilton Umuahia.

“We have been operating in Nigeria for over 40 years, and the country has become one of our strongest growth markets. Umuahia is certainly one of the regional markets we are excited about.

“We look forward to finalising the agreement and bringing DoubleTree by Hilton Umuahia to reality as soon as possible,” she said.

Earlier, General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Mr. Kingsley Agomuo, said the visit marked a significant stage in discussions on the project.

He disclosed that following engagements between the Abia State Government and Hilton executives in the United Kingdom earlier this year, DoubleTree by Hilton was selected as the preferred brand for the proposed development.

Agomuo added that the state government had met most of the requirements outlined for the project and expressed optimism that the site inspection would facilitate the next phase of implementation.